Club Cartophile de Mirepoix

The Club Cartophile de Mirepoix: passion for postcards in a medieval bastide

Every September, the medieval bastide of Mirepoix hosts the annual fair organized by its Club Cartophile. This event dedicated to enthusiasts of cartophily — the collection of old postcards — brings together exhibitors and collectors in this exceptional setting, in the shade of the 13th-century medieval arcades.

Cartophily, the art of collecting memories in images

Cartophily is the collection and study of postcards. Appearing at the end of the 19th century, postcards are an irreplaceable record of the visual history of French cities, villages, and landscapes. Postcards depicting the Ariège of yesteryear — its bastides, Cathar castles, rural scenes, and traditional costumes — are particularly sought after.

The Mirepoix Cartophile Club fair offers not only old postcards but also philatelic documents (stamps, first-day covers, special postmarks), old photographs, historical documents, and various collectibles related to local and regional history. Collectors specializing in Ariège, Languedoc, and the Pyrenees will find rare and precious items here.

Mirepoix, an exceptional setting for a collectors' fair

Mirepoix (09500) offers an ideal setting for a collectors' fair. The central square with its medieval arcades — 13th-century arcaded galleries — is one of the best-preserved medieval architectural ensembles in France. The Saint-Maurice Cathedral, with its remarkable Gothic nave, dominates the scene. The half-timbered medieval houses surrounding the square make Mirepoix a living movie set.

The town is classified among the most beautiful villages in France and attracts many visitors each year. The September cartophily fair is part of this rich event calendar, attracting collectors from all over the southwest of France.

The Club Cartophile, guardian of local memory

The Club Cartophile de Mirepoix plays an essential role in preserving the visual memory of the region. By bringing together collectors and specialized dealers, it promotes the circulation and preservation of old postcards, which are irreplaceable testimonies of local history. The annual fair is an opportunity for members to present their discoveries and enrich their collections.

Practical Information

The Club Cartophile fair is held in Mirepoix (09500), usually in September. Free admission for visitors. Information available from the Mirepoix town hall.